Get ready for a spectacular celestial event this August, as not one but two supermoons are set to grace our night skies!
MLive reports that the month will kick off with the Sturgeon Moon on Aug. 1, followed by a mesmerizing Blue Moon on Aug. 30.
But what exactly are supermoons, and why are they so special?
What Are Supermoons?
Supermoons occur when the full moon aligns with its perigee, the point in its elliptical orbit where it is closest to Earth. Because of this cosmic coincidence, the moon appears larger and brighter than usual during full moons.
While the size difference may not be visible to the human eye, the enhanced brightness of the supermoon makes it a spectacular sight for stargazers.
The Sturgeon Moon
The first supermoon of August is dubbed the Sturgeon Moon, a name steeped in history and cultural significance.
According to Almanac, the Sturgeon Moon was traditionally associated with the time of year when sturgeon fish were most readily caught. These massive creatures, with their prehistoric origins dating back around 136 million years, once thrived in the Great Lakes and Lake Champlain.
Sturgeons, often called "living fossils," are incredible creatures with an impressive lifespan of up to 150 years.
However, the sturgeon population has faced significant challenges, particularly the lake sturgeon. Overfishing, pollution, and habitat destruction have caused their numbers to dwindle, rendering them quite rare today. Notably, sturgeons are most renowned for their association with caviar.
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The Not-So-Rare Blue Moon
Get ready for an extraordinary lunar event this month - the Blue Moon on Aug. 30! "Blue Moon" is used when two full moons grace our skies within the same calendar month, a relatively rare occurrence.
How often do Blue Moons happen? Contrary to the saying "once in a blue moon," they occur more frequently. According to NASA, we can expect a Blue Moon every two to three years.
But there is more to be excited about! The Blue Moon on Aug. 30 will be the closest, biggest, and brightest full supermoon of the entire year. Coming as close as 222,043 miles to Earth, this supermoon will be a breathtaking sight you won't want to miss.
You will have to wait until Nov. 5, 2025, for the next opportunity to witness a full supermoon this spectacularly close.
How to Witness the Supermoons
If you are excited about witnessing these breathtaking lunar spectacles, here's all you need to know:
- Sturgeon Moon (Aug. 1): After sunset, head outside and gaze towards the southeastern skies to experience the magnificent moonrise.
- Blue Moon (Aug. 30): Make a note for 9:36 P.M. Eastern Time. This is when the moon will be at its peak illumination, displaying its captivating brilliance.
Remember, these supermoons are easily visible to the naked eye, so no fancy equipment is necessary. Just find a spot with a clear night sky view, away from city lights, and get ready to be amazed.
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